JU journalist threatened over publication of news
JU Correspondent
The Bangladesh Democratic Student Council (BAGCHAS) has strongly condemned the personal threats issued to journalist Saikat Islam following the publication of an investigative report at Jahangirnagar University.
In an emergency statement issued yesterday, Saturday, BAGCHAS spokesperson Ashrefa Khatun expressed the organization’s protest against the incident.
The statement read,"In the aftermath of the July Uprising, we secured an environment of freedom of speech and independent thought. The right to speak out against social, political, and economic irregularities is integral to our human dignity. However, over the past fifteen years under the fascist Hasina regime, this right has been repeatedly suppressed. We refuse to return to an atmosphere of fear and intimidation."
It further stated,"Despite facing oppression for the past fifteen years, journalists at Jahangirnagar University have consistently upheld objective reporting. Even during the July Uprising, courageous journalism and the bloodied, bullet-ridden images of reporters served as inspiration for our resistance. Yet today, efforts continue to obstruct investigative journalism — a direct assault on the freedom of the press."
BAGCHAS has called for a proper investigation into the incident and demanded swift action against those responsible. The organization also urged authorities to ensure the safety of journalist Saikat Islam and all media professionals.
On April 24, a report was published on JagoNews24.com covering various irregularities and disputes over financial distributions surrounding a free Hepatitis B vaccination program organized by the Jahangirnagar University chapter of the Chhatra Dal. The report, titled *"Chhatra Dal's Vaccination Campaign Suspended at JU Amid Allegations of Financial Disputes and Rehabilitation of an Awami MP,"* alleged that disagreements arose among the unit’s Joint Convener, Convener, Member Secretary, and the Central General Secretary regarding the distribution of funds. It also claimed that attempts were made to rehabilitate a former Awami League-affiliated MP under the guise of donations.
Within hours of its publication, the report was removed from JagoNews24.com, and journalist Saikat Islam reportedly received personal threats through various channels.
